Paris, 13 February 2024 — The global federation for wine and spirits, FIVS, Presidential Council announced this week the appointment of Julie Hesketh-Laird as the new CEO. The body represents 75% of the international wine trade.
Ms Hesketh-Laird is a global food and drink professional with a career to date spanning private sector business representation and government. She has led membership bodies in iconic sectors such as the salmon sector and Scotch Whisky, as well as her recent leading role in an independent food regulatory public sector body.
‘This is a pivotal time for the sector. We cannot underestimate the global challenges our members face, not least the economic, regulatory, and environmental headwinds in many parts of the world’, said Ms Hesketh-Laird.
‘I’m delighted to be joining FIVS, an organisation with such history and culture combined with an engaged membership and a strong commitment to sustainability’.
Charles Jefferson, Interim Co-president of FIVS and Vice President Federal and International Public Policy of Wine Institute said ‘Julie brings a wealth of advocacy and strategy development experience to FIVS along with new energy and focus to build on our recent successes. Her years of experience tackling challenging issues in the alcohol sector will prove invaluable’.
Ignacio Sánchez Recarte, Interim Co-President of FIVS and Secretary General of Comité européen des entreprises vins (CEEV) added ‘Julie’s professional competencies and experience are a key asset for FIVS to better face the growing list of global challenges. Under her leadership, FIVS will continue its transition towards an outward facing, advocacy-driven global organisation.
Headquartered in Paris, France, FIVS is a global trade association serving the wine and alcohol sectors from around the world on public policy issues. Its members include producers, distributors, importers, exporters, and trade associations. FIVS advocates consensus policy positions to international and intergovernmental organisations as well as governments. FIVS aims to enhance the global operating environment for its members by providing leadership and through effective, united advocacy with all appropriate organisations.
